Denis Wick 4 vs Denis Wick 5L
The Denis Wick 4 has a wider cup diameter, the Denis Wick 4 has a larger throat opening.
The narrowest point at the bottom of the cup. Affects resistance, volume, and tone color.
Mouthpiece A
Denis Wick 4
• Tuba
Throat diameter8.27 mm / 0.3256 in
Best suited for
Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
High-volume projection — open throat for power
vs
Mouthpiece B
Denis Wick 5L
• Tuba
Throat diameter7.89 mm / 0.3106 in
Best suited for
Orchestral playing — large cup for full, dark tone
High-volume projection — open throat for power
Throat Diameter
The Denis Wick 4 has a wider throat (8.27 mm / 0.3256 in vs 7.89 mm / 0.3106 in). A wider throat allows more air through, increasing volume and projection but reducing resistance.
Which is better?
Neither mouthpiece clearly dominates the other — the right choice depends on your embouchure, playing style, and the sound you're after. Try both if possible.